1/11/2023 8 Comments Winter Weekend in Traverse City![]()
Over the last few years, we rather unexpectedly created a tradition of spending New Year's Eve in Northern Michigan and ringing in the New Year on the ski slopes. This year we kept with tradition and spent the weekend in Traverse City. This is one of my favorite destinations in all of Michigan (read more here). While I had visited several times, I had never been in the winter so I was excited to explore all the area had to offer in the snowy season.
Disclaimer: Our trip was planned in partnership with Visit Traverse City. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Where to stay
Upon arriving to town we checked into Hotel Indigo for our two-night stay. This boutique hotel is ideally located along the downtown waterfront in Traverse City within walking distance of the great shopping and dining available on Front Street. I loved the modern design of the rooms and lounge areas. They also offer valet parking which was so convenient and allowed for quick access in and out. Hotel Indigo is home to Warehouse KiTChen + Cork featuring fresh, seasonal menus and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (see more below).
Where to eat/drink
Hop Lot Igloo Village - Our first stop of the trip was the igloo village at Hop Lot in Suttons Bay. They have the dreamiest set up nestled in the forest that truly feels like a winter wonderland. You can book an igloo online for 75 minutes with up to 8 friends and sip on beer, wine, cider and a full menu of yummy food! Each igloo had their own heater so we were very cozy and warm. Or you can enjoy a drink and a s'more near the outdoor fire pits.
Black Star Farms - If you're looking for a unique way to spend time outdoors in the winter, head to Black Star Farms to explore their easy to moderate trails through the vineyards. Snowshoe rentals are available on the weekends as part of their Snowshoes, Vines and Wines event. You can then warm up with a glass of mulled wine on the heated Terrace Patio or near the fireplace in the tasting room. Mari Vineyards - This was our first time visiting this winery and the tasting room truly feels like you are stepping into the Italian countryside. Sit by the fireplace and enjoy a glass or wine or tasting flight. If you're looking for a unique winter experience sample their limited edition dessert wines which are made by harvesting frozen grapes. Mammoth Distilling - Located right around the corner from Hotel Indigo this was the perfect spot to celebrate on New Year's Eve before we walked downtown to watch the CherryT Ball Drop. Some of the best cocktails I've tried with lots of unique varieties - the gin and tonic got exceptionally high ratings with our group. The tasting room had a very chill vibe and they had live music on the weekend. Next door is The Workshop Brewing Company which is also home to Archie's Food Truck serving up delicious apps, burgers, and Mac n cheese which you can enjoy at either location. Warehouse KiTChen + Cork - This is the signature restaurant within Hotel Indigo and even if you're not staying at the hotel I highly recommend eating here. They have an amazing happy hour from 4-6 p.m. daily at the bar which we definitely took advantage of. We enjoyed the jalapeño popper bread and parmesan garlic wings for dinner while we watched football in the lounge. We also ate here for breakfast before heading out to ski at Crystal Mountain and I can't tell you how good the banana bread bowl was - my favorite meal of the trip for sure! Hopscotch Brick Oven Pizza - I had been here once before on my Pet Friendly Traverse City weekend and was excited to return. They have a spacious outdoor patio with igloos as well as the main dining area. As the name implies, they specialize in brick oven pizza. We tried the seafood pizza and it was so delicious! You'll also find unique small plates and smoked meats on the menu as well as a variety of local beers and cider on tap. Benedict - If you're looking for another great spot to grab a bite to eat in the morning before heading off on your adventures, this is the spot. This adorable cafe in Old Town Traverse City features breakfast and lunch with a focus on local, seasonal foods and you guessed it - the poached egg. They have a variety of Benedicts to choose from and their home fries are to die for. Where to adventure
Snow tubing at Mt. Holiday - What better way to get out and enjoy the season than by flying down a hill of snow at up to 30 mph?! This activity is fun for all ages and great for bigger groups as you can go down the hill connected to your friends' tubes for added speed. Tickets must be booked online for a two hour window at $15/pp. Mt. Holiday is also a ski resort with multiple runs (weather dependent).
Skiing at Crystal Mountain - One of the main reasons for our visit was to hit the slopes and we couldn't wait to return to Crystal Mountain. This 4 season resort is located about 45 minutes outside of downtown Traverse City and offers a variety of ski runs great for all skill levels. They also have several options for dining if you need to take a break to warm up as well as The Thistle a fine dining restaurant, offering a unique menu that changes from season to season. CherryT Ball Drop - If you're visiting Traverse City over the holiday weekend, the best way to ring in the new year is with the annual CherryT ball drop. On New Year's Eve, hundreds of people gather on Front Street to celebrate the countdown to midnight when a giant lighted cherry descends from the sky. There was a DJ spinning tunes leading up to the ball drop which was a lot of fun! Shopping on Front Street - There is always something new to discover along Front Street which is home to a variety of local boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants. If you're staying at Hotel Indigo, it's an easy walk to visit some of your favorites (like Cherry Republic) or discover something new.
8 Comments
10/25/2023 11:36:41 pm
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5/30/2024 12:59:31 am
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5/30/2024 01:05:07 am
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6/25/2024 12:39:28 am
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AuthorI love creating detailed travel guides to ensure you get the most out of your adventures. On this blog I'll be sharing my favorite destinations, lodging, and activities in Michigan and beyond . Pack your bags you never know where I'll be heading next! Archives
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